Featured Memorial | Mariangela Melato

Mariangela Melato Obituary

ROME (AP) — Italian actress Mariangela Melato, known for her critically acclaimed performance as a spoiled socialite stranded with a sailor she had tormented in the 1974 film comedy "Swept Away," has died in a Rome hospital at age 71.

The Antea hospital said she died Friday. The LaPresse news agency said she was suffering from pancreatic cancer.

The blond actress had most success in a series of films in the 1970s directed by Italian Lina Wertmuller, including "The Seduction of Mimi" and "Love and Anarchy."

One of the most acclaimed was the role of a socialite who finds herself stranded with Giancarlo Giannini. Her role was played by Madonna in a 2002 remake.

Melato had less success in Hollywood roles, which included a supporting part in "Flash Gordon" in 1980.

ROME (AP) — Italian actress Mariangela Melato, known for her critically acclaimed performance as a spoiled socialite stranded with a sailor she had tormented in the 1974 film comedy "Swept Away," has died in a Rome hospital at age 71.

The Antea hospital said she died Friday. The LaPresse news agency said she was suffering from pancreatic cancer.

The blond actress had most success in a series of films in the 1970s directed by Italian Lina Wertmuller, including "The Seduction of Mimi" and "Love and Anarchy."

One of the most acclaimed was the role of a socialite who finds herself stranded with Giancarlo Giannini. Her role was played by Madonna in a 2002 remake.

Melato had less success in Hollywood roles, which included a supporting part in "Flash Gordon" in 1980.

Guest Book Highlights

"Very sad .Ciao Mariangela,great gifted actress.I love "Travolti..."and all her work in Lina Wertmuller films since my teen ages in the '70's.A loss for Italy and all the world .My condolences to all her family,friends and fans, from Puerto Rico."- IAIDA CASTRO (SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico)

"My sincere condolence for the loss of Mariangela your dear loved one. May you receive comfort from your fond memories of her. Peace and love to your family and friends, and to the spirit you show. bjluv333@comcast.net"- B Lucas (Fort Wayne, IN)

"May she rest in peace now.She will be forever missed by millions of fans."- Donna A. (NJ)

"My friend and I decided to watch my favorite film on Friday, Swept Away. He'd never seen it. I hadn't in 15 years or so. The next morning I received his e-mail about Ms Melato. It was a shock. And an atherial gift that leaves me equally sad and..."- Debra Strege (Edina, MN)